Obesity

Americans have grown increasingly heavy due to unhealthy diets and inactive lifestyles. The Pennsylvania Medical Society views this as a major health crisis. Read these articles to find out why obesity has become so widespread and steps you can take to work toward an appropriate and healthy weight.

Related Documents

Heavy Hearts: Obesity Rates Rising in Pennsylvania
Nearly 25 percent of our Pennsylvania’s population is obese, and the rate of obesity has nearly doubled since 1991.
Trans Fats: What Are the Health Risks?
Daniel Glunk, MD, discusses the health impact of trans fats in this videotaped presentation from WPSU's "Pennsylvania Inside Out"
Tools for Calculating Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a tool for comparing and analyzing the health effects of weight relative to height. It's just one of many factors used to predict a person's risk for disease associated with overweight and obesity.
Statewide Poll Shows Majority of Pennsylvanians Struggle to Lead Healthy Lifestyles
Time and willpower prove to be major obstacles to eating right and exercising.
Program Targets Less Obesity, Better Health in Latino Community
Targeted at mothers and caregivers, the “HeadsUp on Health®—Vanguardia de la Salud” program aims to gradually introduce healthy, culturally acceptable dietary and lifestyle changes into Latino families.
Pennsylvania Medical Society Urges Action To Reverse Alarming Trend Towards Life-Threatening Obesity
The Pennsylvania obesity rate has jumped nearly 50 percent since 1991.
Concerns about Latino Health Problems Drive A Su Salud Campaign in Southeastern Pennsylvania
Public encouraged to partner in campaign geared to help Latino communities deal with their health issues
Overweight and Obesity Resources for Physicians and Consumers
Links to clinical information, patient education materials and other resources for treating and managing overweight and obesity.

Related Links

Health Highlight: Childhood Obesity
This highlight examines the rising problem of childhood obesity. In Pennsylvania, one in five children is obese. Learn about body fat screening requirements in Pennsylvania’s schools and weight management programs in your area.